10. Portland, Oregon

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This gem of a town is what all towns should be: friendly and sustainable, with an emphasis on living well.

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9. Moscow, Russia

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Moscow's new airport and extensive metro line expansions means that getting there and getting around has never been easier. Plus, as it's celebrating its Revolution centennial and becoming host to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, it's bound to pull out all the stops.

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8. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is the
place to be right now, as it's both cheaper and more underrated than the rest of Europe — despite being equally impressive in terms of sights, culture and cuisine than some of Europe's more well-known destinations, like Barcelona or Rome. Lisbon is one of the best bargains around right now.

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7. Seoul, South Korea

From massive skyscrapers to tiny temples, South Korea's business and cultural capital is the perfect mix of old and new. Even better, next year an aging elevated highway will be transformed into the Skygarden — a beautiful, aerial park.

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6. Pistoia, Italy

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Known as "Little Florence," Pistoia has all of the culture but none of the crowds. In fact, the Tuscan town will become Italy's Capital of Culture in 2017.

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5. Ohrid, Macedonia

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For a slightly more inexpensive trip to Europe, check out the beautiful, under-the-radar lakeside town of Ohrid. Those looking for culture can explore ancient castles and churches, while the outdoorsy can rent boats, hit the beach, or hike and bike in surrounding forests.

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4. Merida, Mexico

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Forget Spring Break-y Cancun and the increasingly crowded Tulum, and visit Merida instead. The Mexican city has heaps of cultural offerings, from live music and art shows to Mayan ruins and artifacts. In fact, the city was designated the American Capital of Culture this year.

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3. Los Angeles, California

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Great food, great beaches, and more museums and theaters than any other city in the US. While none of this is news, the new 2016 Metro expansion and initiatives like Car Free LA has made getting around town easier for non-driving tourists.

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2. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is becoming a force to be reckoned with, becoming increasingly more global, with a burgeoning culinary scene. In 2017 it will also become home to the new Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art, the world's largest museum of contemporary African art.

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1. Bordeaux, France

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France's most famous wine region is getting a brand new high-speed rail next year, which will get foodies between vineyards and restaurants even faster. It's the perfect spot for a gastronomic adventure.